McManus Wins Red Card Appeal

Photo by Jeff Holmes

Motherwell defender Stephen McManus has won his appeal against the red card he was shown against Aberdeen on Sunday, the Fir Park club have announced. Referee Willie Collum adjudged the 32-year-old to have handled a shot by Jonny Hayes on the line, awarding a penalty which was converted for a 2-0 win for the visitors. However, after a Judicial Panel hearing at Hampden Park on Thursday morning, the card was rescinded McManus told the club's official website: "I was bitterly disappointed and frustrated to be red carded last week, but I do also accept that mistakes happen and are part of the game. "I am obviously pleased the red card has been rescinded and I very much look forward to Saturday's game against Dundee." Motherwell general manager Alan Burrows added: "I would like to thank the Compliance Officer, Tony McGlennan, for arranging the hearing so swiftly along with the members of the panel who sat and considered our appeal. "It's a satisfying conclusion and a good example of how the improved disciplinary procedure can work to ensure a fair and transparent outcome." Meanwhile, St Mirren say they are pleased after they also managed to overturn another of Collum's decisions. Midfielder Kenny McLean was sent off in a 2-1 defeat to Kilmarnock on New Year's Day after the referee claimed he had motioned with his head towards Rugby Park defender Ross Barbour. However, the Judicial Panel have rescinded the red card which means McLean's two game ban is now wiped and he will be available for Saturday's Premiership match against Aberdeen at St Mirren Park.